In Tokyo, 58 percent of the refugees are short-term laborers earning an average monthly income of $953 while 17 percent are unemployed. Refugees in Osaka earn $683 a month. More than 40 percent of the Tokyo and Osaka refugees have experienced sleeping on the street.

The survey also found that of the refugees in Tokyo, 33 percent lost their homes while 20 percent left dorms and live-in housing after quitting their jobs.

A report by AFP said Internet cafes in Japan offer sofas and showers, serve food and drinks, and even sell underwear to businessmen on break or stranded commuters. But young day laborers have taken advantage of the cheap amenities and stay there round-the-clock instead of renting and living in apartments.